Walk 1101 - printer friendly version

Carrock Fell, High Pike and Knott Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 11.0 miles / 17.9 km

Ascent - 2500 feet / 758 metres

Grade - moderate

Start - OS grid reference NY353337
Lat 54.69416 + Long -3.0053205
Postcode CA7 8JS (approx. location only)

The Northern Fells of Lakeland offer some excellent walking in peaceful surroundings. However do not expect rocky terrain, crags or lofty summits. Instead enjoy pleasant walking, often with grass under your feet, rounded hills and few other walkers in sight. This Lake District walk starts from near Mosedale and takes a direct line of ascent to the summit of Carrock Fell before staying on high ground to visit the summits of High Pike and the Knott.

The start (Grid ref. NY353337) is near to Stone Ends Farm on the minor road going north from Mosedale towards Hesket Newmarket. There is plenty of space for parking on the grass verge of this common land. You should park to the north of the small beck, Further Gill Sike, coming off the fell. After careful inspection of the slope ahead, you should be able to see the path climbing steeply from right to left across the fellside just to the left of the crags. The path is most obvious where it crosses a section of light-coloured scree. Having located the path, climb steeply with the scree not causing any major problems. Reaching the beck, the path turns and follows the beck onto the open fell. The path continues making a bee-line for the eastern summit outcrop before continuing towards the main summit which is topped by a substantial cairn. The view is wide ranging covering the Pennines, the Vale of Eden and many Lakeland Fells.

To continue, walk west on a clear path passing Round Knott and Miton Hill towards the main track coming up across the flank of Low Pike from Wood Hall. Reaching this track, turn right and shortly after bear left to follow the clear path to the summit of High Pike with its bench and trig point. From here the view north across the Solway Firth to Scotland is full of interest. The view south is a surprise with Scafell, Scafell Pike, Esk Pike, Bow Fell and Crinkle Crags all in view.

Descend from High Pike by retracing your steps to the main track. Walk roughly southwest on this track (part of the Cumbria Way), soon reaching a wooden hut on the side of Great Lingy Hill, presumably reserved for shooting parties. Continue past the hut on a deteriorating path to cross Grainsgill Beck. Despite the proximity of Miller Moss it is possible to keep your feet dry and start climbing onto the east ridge of the Knott. There is a clear path cutting half right across the fellside and this follows the best line. The going is good and the ascent well graded once past the first steeper section. Reaching the ridge continue to the summit of the Knott which is marked by a few stones.

The view, especially towards Skiddaw is interesting and allows you to study the fells of this area in some detail. In addition other fells further south can also be seen. From here retrace your steps back to Grainsgill Beck. Cross the beck and turn right following the path downstream into the valley. On the way down you reach a wider track and pass the remains of Carrock Mine before joining the tarmac lane running the length of Mosedale. All that remains is a pleasant walk down the lane into the hamlet of Mosedale, where you turn left and follow the lane back to the start.

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